New Toll and Fare Increases Approved for Port Authority Bridges, Tunnels, and Transit
After the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey approved a long-term financial plan with higher tolls and taxes, New Jersey and New York vehicles and commuters will pay more to use major bridges, tunnels, and transit systems Port Authority commissioners massively adopted a $10 billion operational budget and a $45 billion 10-year capital investment plan.
The bistate Port Authority funds itself without state or federal aid. Officials claim only tolls, levies, and user fees can maintain and repair aging infrastructure. Cars, transport, and air travelers will pay more in 2026.
Drivers at the Port Authority’s six bridges and tunnels will pay 3% more and a fixed increase. E-ZPass off-peak costs $14–$15. Nearly $17 in peak E-ZPass tolls. Plate-billed drivers without E-ZPass will pay over $23 every crossing. The Port Authority claims the pricing promotes E-ZPass use and funding infrastructure projects.
Public transit riders will suffer. PATH tariffs will reach $3.25 in May 2026. After that, charges will rise 25 cents annually until 2029, reaching $4 each trip. Beyond 2029, the agency will adjust fares slightly for inflation. The hikes are needed to support long-promised service and system improvements, officials say.
Riders and advocacy groups approve price hikes for more service. Starting in 2026, PATH will operate all four lines seven days a week, improve weekend and late-night service, increase midday train frequency, and extend rush-hour options. Infrastructure investments include new lines, stations, and fee gates to combat fare evasion.
The Port Authority made few airport fee changes after public comment. Uber and Lyft regional airport fees were to rise. The agency will bring in the raise over three years, starting in 2026. Drivers expect passengers to pay more for journeys, rising prices for working families and suburbanites even with the change.
Port Authority officials said airport access costs are equivalent to other major U.S. airports and required for large aviation projects. JFK International Airport terminal redevelopment financing will decrease with the phased method.
Newark Liberty Airport and other regional hubs receive $20 billion of the 10-year capital plan. Old terminals will be rebuilt, new facilities extended, air train links upgraded, and settlement-airport access routes improved.
Over $15 billion goes to bridges, tunnels, and buses. High-profile projects include the George Washington Bridge restoration, Outerbridge Crossing structural work, Lincoln Tunnel helix improvements, and the long-awaited Port Authority Bus Terminal replacement in Midtown Manhattan. Officials say these projects are crucial to regional economic growth, safety, and reliability.
The capital plan funds WTC campus reconstruction and Towers 2 and 5. Port Authority officials call this the final stage in developing a significant commercial and transit hub.
Drivers and community representatives opposed the increases, but commissioners said delaying investment would cost more and cause inconveniences. They believe the approved plan balances financial discipline with updating infrastructure used by millions everyday.
Officials promise improved service, safer crossings, and long-term transportation network improvements, but commuters will pay higher tolls.
Sources
Port Authority of New York and New Jersey (official agency statements and budget approvals)
